Keeping the exterior of your car clean can be challenging. While a bucket of soapy water and cloth is fine on occasion, pressure washing provides better results and long-lasting benefits. To help you understand the process, what it entails, when you need it, and why it’s necessary, the team at Collision Masters, a top auto repair shop in Fairbanks, AK, offers some insight below.

What You Need to Know About Pressure Washing

1. Process

The method uses a high-pressure water spray to effectively rid the car of hardened mold, mud, loose paint chips, and other types of grime. You can either rent one or visit an auto shop to have it done professionally. First, they’ll choose the appropriate PSI, or pounds per square inch level—the higher the level, the more force it will use. An average job requires between 1,900 and 2,800 cleaning units. A professional rinses the vehicle, applies cleaning detergents, and then washes those off.

2. Duration

Times vary depending on whether you do the job yourself and how experienced you are with the device. However, most sessions take about 30 minutes to complete. Remember, a higher PSI will not necessarily reduce your washing time.

3. Signs You Need It

The average person may only need to invest in a pressure washing once a year. However, those who spend time off-roading, or drive on flooded or muddied roads, need the service more often. While you can easily wipe away dust particles and water stains, bird droppings and dried mud require greater power to remedy.

4. Benefits 

Among its many benefits, pressure washing keeps the paint looking like new. Over time, dirt and grime wear down the outer coat, dulling its shine. Regular, heavy cleaning is the only way to prevent it from aging prematurely—which is especially helpful if you intend to re-sell the vehicle. It also reaches smaller and tighter spaces for a more thorough job and longer lasting effects than hand-washing alone.

If you're looking for professional assistance, visit Collision Masters. Their skilled and experienced staff specializes in pressure washing in addition to their sandblasting, auto painting, and collision repair services. Moreover, all their work comes with a lifetime warranty. For more information about what they can do for you, visit their website. To speak with a friendly representative today, call (907) 451-8456.